Organic describes how agricultural ingredients are grown and handled, not simply whether a product sounds natural. USDA organic certification verifies that a product meets the applicable standards of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Organic Program.

Organic production prohibits genetic engineering, sewage sludge, and ionizing radiation. Farmers primarily manage pests and weeds through preventive, physical, mechanical, and biological methods. When these methods are not enough, certain approved substances may be used. Organic does not mean that no pesticides are ever used.

How Do I Know If a Product Is Certified Organic?

Look for the USDA Organic seal and the certifying agent's name on the label. Products labeled "organic" must contain at least 95% organic ingredients, excluding salt and water, and the remaining ingredients must meet applicable requirements. "100 percent organic" is a separate labeling category. Products labeled "made with organic" ingredients cannot display the USDA Organic seal.

What Does the USDA Organic Seal Mean?

The seal identifies products certified to USDA organic standards. Certified operations must maintain an organic system plan and records that demonstrate compliance. Certification includes inspections and ongoing oversight. Farms and businesses that handle or process organic products generally need certification, although specific exemptions apply.

What Is the Difference Between Natural and Organic?

The word "natural" is not a substitute for organic certification. For cosmetics, FDA does not define "natural" or "organic" through its own regulations; qualifying agricultural ingredients and products may instead be certified under USDA standards. Neither term, by itself, guarantees that a product will suit every person's skin.

Why Can Organic Products Cost More?

Organic products do not always cost more. When they do, certification, inspections, recordkeeping, labor, and production scale can contribute to the price. Costs vary by product and producer. Organic farmers and handlers may also qualify for USDA assistance, including help with certification costs, so it is not accurate to say that organic operations receive no federal support.

Get More Information

For details, see USDA's organic standards and organic labeling guide, FDA's information on organic cosmetics, and USDA's Organic Certification Cost Share Program.